Wednesday, August 5, 2009

French Vacation Homes - Factors to Keep in Mind

By Erik Simonsen

Finding a suitable holiday cottage in France is mostly about choosing which region of this astonishing country you'd particularly like to explore. We have all seen France's fashionable parades and its outstanding cities in books and television, but witnessing it first hand is quite different. The capital itself could easily take up your entire vacation - or even several, but there is a great deal more available to enjoy, and staying in a holiday cottage in France is the best way to do this.

France is certainly a country of contrasts, from the snowy mountain peaks of the Alps to the warm, sunny beaches lapped by the Mediterranean. France's history is more than evident as you explore the countryside, with quaint little hamlets nestled in the folds of the mountain ranges, or discover a castle seemingly raised up through the very rocks of the landscape. Whichever of France's spectacular landscapes you prefer, staying in a holiday cottage in France is an experience that will take you far away.

In the north western part of the country is located the regions of Normandy and Brittany. Both are well known for cattle breeding and dairy products such as a multitude of delicious cheeses. Normandy is well known for its coastal location, and unsurprisingly its seafood is second to none. A wide variety of local dishes makes a stay in a holiday cottage in France here a gastronomic journey. Something you're sure to notice as you drive about through this region of France is the high number of orchards all around. You'll be pleased to know that after those delicious meals there's plenty of locally brewed cider on offer.

The Loire Valley enjoys a delightful name, and it certainly represents this lush area perfectly, and is ideal when looking for a holiday cottage in France. Right up to the 1500s, France's royalty and nobles erected magnificent castles, mansions and palaces in this region, each boasting landscaped vistas. Unsurprisingly, given both its historical significance and beauty, a significant portion of this area is now a World Heritage Site. If you are looking for peaceful and relaxing surroundings during your stay in a holiday cottage in France, the Loire Valley is an obvious choice.

It is, of course, nearly impossible to rent a holiday cottage in France without tasting some of the great wines that is produced here every year. French wine has a global reputation, so much so that it's easy to forget that Cognac is actually a region of the country. From Bordeaux to Champagne, when looking for a holiday cottage in France you can let your bottles guide you! Your holiday cottage in France in one of these regions is the perfect starting point for a holiday very close to fertile wine fields.

If you're looking for a beach holiday, then the southern coastal regions enjoy the Mediterranean Sea, sand and climate all year round. France is a huge country, and although very open and unspoilt, its cityscapes are like jewels, with places like Cannes and Nice constantly in the spotlight. As it is no big deal to find a great holiday cottage in France here, you can also look forward to a refreshing stay in the sun. The tall palm trees provide shelter if the sun gets too much for you. Take a break from doing nothing and plunge into the crystal clear waters of the ocean. Whether you prefer the rolling vineyards, the rugged castles of the chic city experience, choosing a holiday cottage in France opens all sorts of possibilities.

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